On April 5, 2024, on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, a student on the 5th floor of Argenta Hall (A residence hall that primarily houses diverse students) was recorded repeatedly yelling racial slurs at the top of their voice. The recording of the student caused shock throughout the University, and the Black Student Organization quickly arranged a protest. The incident alone was not the sole reason for the protest; however, the actions taken by the University Housing Department in dealing with the situation left many people unsatisfied. 

The University's housing department deemed this situation a matter of free speech and will not further any charges past the noise violation the student already received. While it is also a culmination of the United State's deeply rooted racist and discriminatory history that prompted this protest, a desire for unity was the driving force. 

 "We are not here to divide; we are here to unite. During these crucial times, it is evident that we, as students, faculty, and staff, come together to support one another, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality", said Virchelle Banks, BSO president.

Eleven days later, on April 16, 2024, the UNR Black Student Organization held a peaceful protest on the steps of the Knowledge Center. In the heart of campus, students of different races and genders were packed closely together on the steps, shouting in unison the phrases many of them had written on their placards.

"This movement aims to address the deeper wounds of our country's history regarding people of color. We are the generation that implements change, we must drive this change within our University's community", Said Banks.

After about 45 minutes of protesting, a crowd of students, faculty, and passersby started to gather around the steps in a large semicircle. Students began sharing firsthand stories of discriminatory acts that they had seen or experienced. 

Large bundles of water and food were delivered to the protestors. Bound by the purpose of bringing well-being, the water cases were representative of the protest and of helping one another, for everyone shares basic necessities. 

The sun danced through the clouds as stories attracted the attention of people walking by. A sort of intimacy was shared when students nervously took the stage to speak on a time when they felt hurt. 

"This is not a black vs. white issue; it's about standing up for those who have no voice and implementing changes in the Reno/Sparks community. BSO's mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone is welcome", said Banks.

The young group of protestors even influenced a large amount of the viewing crowd to join the virtuous chants. 

In a statement released on April 12, 2024, by University President Brian Sandoval, he states that the case is under review by the authorities and that incidents like this are unacceptable. 

While the University's next actions are still unclear, it is unlikely the voices present in this protest will go unnoticed. Though it is hopeful that reparations will be made, it is the future path that Organizations like the BSO are trying to pave. By demonstrating the powerful force of unity, hatred can more easily be diminished, and equality can thrive without threat.